Maryland Center for Developmental Disabilities Newsletter – 2026, Issue 4

Director’s Message

Welcome to the fall edition of the MCDD newsletter. As we settle into a new season, we invite you to explore the latest updates, accomplishments, and resources from the Maryland Center for Developmental Disabilities (MCDD), Kennedy Krieger Institute, and our community partners.

Special Announcements

The MCDD is pleased to welcome Dante Cornish to the team as the new administrative support coordinator for Project HEAL (Health, Education, Advocacy, and Law) and the Resource Finder.

From Needs Assessment to Community-Informed Strategy

The Community Advisory Council (CAC) will play a critical role in developing and connecting the needs assessment with the voices and experiences of the communities the MCDD represents.

MCDD Partners with Special Olympics Maryland to Expand Healthy Young Athletes

Since 2024, the MCDD and other Kennedy Krieger clinical departments and programs have collaborated with Special Olympics Maryland (SOMD) to help implement SOMD’s Healthy Young Athletes program at two Kennedy Krieger early childhood centers: Southeast Early Head Start and the Early Childhood Development and Education Center.

Autism Research and Engagement Core Updates

The Autism Research and Engagement Core team continues to contribute to national research efforts, publishing timely articles and reports that explore key issues facing the autism community.

Trainee Spotlight

The MCDD is excited to welcome several new trainees to its formalized preservice training program.

IDDRC Corner: Supporting Investigators Conducting IDD Research

The Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center (IDDRC) at Kennedy Krieger Institute and The Johns Hopkins University supports any investigator conducting research on intellectual and developmental disabilities at the Institute, regardless of independent funding status.

Community Connections

The MCDD continues to support and engage the community through events, conferences, and advocacy efforts. Discover how our recent activities are helping create more inclusive opportunities across Maryland and beyond.

Resource Roundup

Check out the latest roundup of resources for individuals with intellectual, developmental, and other disabilities.